CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback room is generating significant speculation as the NFL Draft approaches. While the team hasn’t made any blockbuster moves to bolster the position, indications suggest the organization is strategically evaluating its options, potentially setting the stage for a surprise during the draft.
Currently, the Browns have Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel under contract. On paper, this provides depth, but it doesn’t guarantee long-term stability. The lack of a clear-cut hierarchy at the position fuels questions about who will lead the offense in the 2026 season.
The Watson Factor and Sanders’ Potential
Despite a recent shoulder injury and two Achilles tendon injuries – the second occurring during rehabilitation from the first, causing him to miss the entire 2025 season – Deshaun Watson is currently considered the frontrunner for the starting job, according to NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah. Watson has started 19 games since arriving in Cleveland via a trade in 2022 that cost the Browns three first-round picks, completing 341 of 557 passes for 3,365 yards and 19 touchdowns. While those numbers aren’t overwhelming given his fully guaranteed $230 million contract, the Browns’ new head coach, Todd Monken, hasn’t ruled him out of the competition.
Monken, speaking at the NFL Combine, emphasized an open competition within the quarterback room. “I don’t know why it wouldn’t be an open competition,” he said. “I don’t think there’s enough on film over the last couple years one way or the other to say, ‘Boy, we have a starter at quarterback’ yet, whether internally or externally.”
Shedeur Sanders, meanwhile, has shown encouraging signs, starting the last seven games of the 2025 season. His performance has positioned him as a strong contender, and many believe his job is his to lose. The Browns appear willing to give both Watson and Sanders a legitimate opportunity to compete for the starting role.
Exploring Draft Options: From Elite Prospects to Late-Round Gems
The Browns aren’t solely focused on their current roster. According to Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot, the team is prepared to move forward with Watson and Sanders as their top two contenders, but they haven’t entirely closed the door on adding a quarterback through the draft. The team was reportedly never seriously considering a trade for Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, even amidst widespread rumors.
The draft strategy could range from selecting a quarterback early to targeting a player with high potential later in the draft. The success of Brock Purdy, who has become a key player despite being a late-round pick, demonstrates the viability of the latter approach. Names like Carson Beck, Drew Allar, and Garrett Nussmeier could represent intriguing options for Cleveland without requiring a significant investment of draft capital.
It’s worth noting that the rookie quarterback class isn’t considered particularly strong this year. Alabama’s Ty Simpson has expressed interest in playing for the Browns, and Caron Beck has a prior relationship with Coach Monken, while Drew Allar is a native of Ohio. However, the Browns may not be particularly enamored with any of the available prospects.
Building Around the Quarterback: Offensive Line Improvements
Regardless of who emerges as the starter, the Browns are prioritizing improvements to their offensive line. This demonstrates a commitment to creating a more stable and productive environment for their quarterback, recognizing that a strong line is crucial for success in the modern NFL. Investing in the offensive line will provide whoever takes the snaps with a better chance to succeed.
The Browns’ approach reflects a broader uncertainty at the position. The open competition announced by Coach Monken underscores the team’s willingness to evaluate all options before making a final decision. This cautious approach suggests the Browns are determined to find the best possible solution for the long term.
The situation remains fluid, and the Browns are keeping their intentions closely guarded. The team’s strategic discretion could allow them to surprise many during the draft, potentially adding a new dimension to their quarterback competition.
As the draft approaches, the Browns’ quarterback situation remains one of the most intriguing storylines in the NFL. Between strategic secrecy and multiple potential scenarios, Cleveland could be poised to make a significant move in the coming weeks.
Next Up: The NFL Draft begins on April 23rd. The Browns will have the opportunity to address the quarterback position, or potentially stand pat with their current group. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the Browns’ draft strategy and quarterback competition.
